Together with the civilization progress, human life became longer, which resulted in the increased number of old people. For every person, the old age is a period of accumulation of many unfavourable changes due to the aging process and diseases. All life functions deteriorate. The course of diseases in the elderly is very varied and severe. Thus, nursing becomes one of the most important medical activities. Providing the elderly with nursing and medical services of the highest quality is not only an imperative following from the civilization progress, but also a humane and moral duty.

The aim of the work was to collect opinions of the state nursing home residents about the quality of life at the institution. 54 residents of ‘Jesień życia’ state nursing home in Bydgoszcz were covered with the study. A diagnostic survey was conducted in may 2001.

People who live in ‘Jesień życia’ state nursing home are old and lonely. Their old age and loneliness, lack of the sense of security and of the possibility to provide for their needs are reasons for their living at the institution. Disorders of musculoskeletal system and sense organs (81.4%) and of circulatory system (75.9%) limit their activity.

Restoring their ability to perform basic life activities, forms in the nursing home residents the sense of being independent, which improves their quality of life evaluation. Contacts with family and friends, visits to the philharmonics, theatre or cinema and participation in trips significantly increase the respondents’ activity. Attending Mass strengthens them spiritually and gives energy to live on.